A FIVE-STAR second-half performance gave Aberystwyth Town their first win in seven matches.

Two goals from top-scorer Gavin Allen and a wonder strike from home debutant Jonathan Coates inspired Aber as they notched their first goals in five outings in a match which doubled as a dress rehearsal for the Welsh Cup fourth round.

However, it was Caernarfon who had slightly the better of an evenly-contested first half, with diminutive forward Aaron Thomas going close on several occasions.

The home side's only real opportunity before the break came when Allen had a shot blocked by goalkeeper David Walsh.

The deadlock was finally broken early in the second half, Sion Meredith rising to head home a corner.

Aber's recent fragile confidence was restored and three minutes later Allen scored his first, guiding home a pinpoint cross from Paul Moore.

Moore supplied Allen again ten minutes later flicking the ball through for the former Welsh under-21 international to slot in.

Aber's fourth came in the 66th minute. Walsh blocked Moore's initial effort but could do little to prevent him steering in the rebound.

Aberystwyth eased up a little following Moore's goal but were so much in control that the introduction of substitutes Owen Thomas, Mark Gornall and debutant Geraint Williams failed to affect their rhythm.

The misery continued for Caernarfon with a serious injury to Craig Hogg following a challenge from Aneurin Thomas.

And their nightmare afternoon was completed two minutes from time when Jonathan Coates' long-range effort curled into the roof of the net for Aber's fifth.